Latest news with #KaraGammell
The Sun
29-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
EE Mobile customers urged to apply for compensation after network went down for 12 hours
EE Mobile customers are being urged to file complaints and seek compensation following a 12-hour outage. Millions of customers were left unable to make or receive calls after an outage struck the mobile network at the end of last week. 1 The outage began at late on Thursday, July 24, with angry customers flooding social media with complaints. BT, the owner of the EE network, quickly addressed the issue, with a spokesperson stating: "We're currently addressing an issue impacting our services. "We apologise for any inconvenience caused. We're working urgently to fix this issue and will provide a further update as soon as possible." Despite the update, the mobile network didn't confirm the issue was resolved until 9pm on Thursday evening. However, thousands of customers remained unable to make or receive calls well into Friday, July 25. EE advised those severely affected by the outage to contact their customer service team about compensation. Telecom regulator Ofcom has an automatic compensation scheme for broadband and landline customers when services are disrupted. However, mobile customers aren't covered and don't receive the same protection for connection issues. That said, you can still request compensation directly from your provider. Kara Gammell, personal finance expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: "You won't automatically get a refund from your provider after a mobile phone outage as Ofcom advises that compensation is 'dependent on the circumstances'. "But, if the disruption has been significant, and you have experienced major inconvenience or financial implications as a result, you might be entitled to an account credit or additional compensation. "If that's the case, it's worth contacting your provider directly to see what they can offer to help put things right." Customers can use the 'Live Chat' feature on the EE website or dial 150 from their mobile to file a complaint and request compensation. Compensation is typically assessed on a case-by-case basis. For example, if you rely on your phone for business or had an urgent need to make calls, it's worth filing a complaint. While there's no guarantee you'll receive compensation, it's always worth asking. How to complain and WIN compensation If your provider hasn't fixed the issue on time or you're unhappy with the delay, follow the formal complaints process. Take screenshots of the outage on your phone and note how long your service was down. Be clear about any extra costs you faced because of the outage, as you might be able to claim them back. To complain, call EE on 150 or use their live chat. Keep copies of receipts or bills to show any extra costs caused by the outage – these will help strengthen your case. If your formal complaint doesn't resolve the issue, you can ask for a "deadlock letter" after eight weeks and take your dispute to an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) scheme. ADR schemes are free and act as an independent mediator between you and your provider when complaints can't be settled directly. There are two ADR schemes in the UK - the Communications Ombudsman and CISAS. Providers must be part of one, and you can check which scheme covers your provider at EE is a member of the Communications Ombudsman. To file a complaint, you can fill out the claims form on the ADR scheme's website by visiting or send a letter. The ADR scheme looks at the evidence from you and your provider before making a decision. If it agrees you should get compensation and you accept the decision, your network has 28 days to pay. If you reject the decision, you won't be able to claim the resolution offered. CUT YOUR TELECOM COSTS By James Flanders, Chief Consumer Reporter Switching contracts is one of the single best ways to save money on your mobile, broadband and TV bills. But if you can't switch mid-contract without facing a penalty, you'd be best to hold off until it's up for renewal. But don't just switch contracts because the price is cheaper than what you're currently paying. Take a look at your minutes and texts, as well as your data usage, to find out which deal is best for you. For example, if you're a heavy internet user, it's worth finding a deal that accommodates this so you don't have to spend extra on bundles or add-ons each month. In the weeks before your contract is up, use comparison sites to familiarise yourself with what deals are available. It's a known fact that new customers always get the best deals. Sites like MoneySuperMarket and Uswitch all help you customise your search based on price, allowances and provider. This should make it easier to decide whether to renew your contract or move to another provider. However, if you don't want to switch and are happy with the service you're getting under your current provider - haggle for a better deal. You can still make significant savings by renewing your contract rather than rolling on to the tariff you're given after your deal. If you need to speak to a company on the phone, be sure to catch them at the right time. Make some time to negotiate with your provider in the morning. This way, you have a better chance of being the first customer through on the phone, and the rep won't have worked tirelessly through previous calls which may have affected their stress levels. It pays to be polite when getting through to someone on the phone, as representatives are less inclined to help rude or aggressive customers. Knowing what other offers are on the market can help you to make a case for yourself to your provider. If your provider won't haggle, you can always threaten to leave. Companies don't want to lose customers and may come up with a last-minute offer to keep you. It's also worth investigating social tariffs. These deals have been created for people who are receiving certain benefits.
Daily Mirror
29-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
Brits warned to unplug one household device before going on holiday
With August expected to be the busiest month for Brits travelling abroad, UK households are being urged to take action to protect their properties before they go away With August set to be the peak month for Britons heading overseas, UK households are being warned to take steps to safeguard their properties. Before departing on holiday, specialists at MoneySuperMarket are recommending people follow seven straightforward measures to ensure their home receives optimal protection. With one in five UK homes now facing flood risk and the peak number of break-ins in England and Wales taking place between July and September last year, there are particular basic yet essential precautions you can take to avoid this. This can be done by disconnecting electrical devices to fastening bins and taking away magnifying mirrors. These simple measures will help keep your property secure and provide reassurance whilst you're absent, reports the Manchester Evening News. "If you return home to find your home burgled or damaged by flooding, it's important to report the incident to your insurance provider as soon as possible," advised Kara Gammell, insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket. "To help prevent an insurance claim from being denied, make sure your contents insurance is up to date, reflecting the value of your belongings. It's also advisable to avoid leaving spare keys in obvious places, like under the doormat and ensure you have working smoke alarms throughout your home." Seven steps to follow before going on holiday Disconnect extension leads "Electrical fires are one of the most common causes of house fires in the UK, especially when you're away on holiday. Daisy-chaining extension leads, ageing wiring, or leaving appliances on standby can all pose serious risks," Kara warned. "Before you lock up, take a few minutes to unplug anything non-essential and make sure that extension leads aren't overloaded, and are turned off where possible." Keep your calendar out of sight Kara explained: "Leaving a calendar with your holiday dates on display near a window could make your home an easy target - a thief only needs to take a quick photo and zoom in to know exactly when your house will be empty. In general, it's best to keep your calendar out of sight to prevent opportunistic thieves from taking advantage." Don't leave electronics on charge and check batteries "Lithium-ion batteries can be found in most rechargeable devices, such as e-bikes, vaping devices, power banks and smart watches. If left charging unattended, particularly with cheap chargers bought online, they can overheat and cause fires," Kara said. "Electronics that use lithium-ion batteries should always be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and flammable materials. Do not leave electronics to charge when you are away and always look out for warning signs of a failing battery - which includes bulging or swelling and being hot to the touch." The expert continued: "Never throw devices with lithium-ion batteries in the bin or your standard recycling bins. If crushed or damaged, these batteries can ignite and cause dangerous fires. Instead, you can safely dispose of your batteries and rechargeable electronics at local household waste recycling centres." Magnifying mirrors "Fires caused by sunlight reflecting off everyday items like magnifying mirrors, glass ornaments or mirrored trays are more common than you might think - especially in summer," Kara noted. "When left near windows, these objects can concentrate sunlight and ignite curtains, furniture or even carpets. Before heading off on holiday, do a quick sweep to move anything reflective out of direct sunlight. It only takes a minute, but could prevent devastating damage," she continued. Be flood aware Homeowners whose properties have previously flooded pay twice as much for insurance compared to those that have never been flooded, according to new analysis from MoneySuperMarket. "There's a common misconception that you're only at risk from floods if you live beside the water, when in fact, a quarter of flooding occurs in areas that are formally designated as being outside of flood risk zones," Kara pointed out. "Ensure your home insurance covers flood damage, that you have your policy details readily available and register for free flood warnings from the Met Office or your local council to receive alerts about potential flooding – when you're at home or on holiday." Guard against leaks She warned: "Escape of water is the most common home insurance claim cause in the UK - and it's not just about burst pipes during a cold snap." "Don't ignore slow leaks from toilets, washing machines or taps; what seems like a small issue now can quickly turn into a full-blown insurance claim later. If you're heading off on holiday, it's worth turning off your water at the stopcock to reduce the risk entirely." Tidy up clutter Kara continued: "Rats can gnaw through almost anything, and there's nothing they love more than an empty, quiet house. If you've left food scraps in bins or crumbs under the sofa, or in your car - they'll move in fast and can do a surprising amount of damage." "To protect your property, clear away clutter, trim overgrown plants, seal up gaps or holes, and keep bins tightly shut and clean to avoid attracting rodents." As explained by Waste Managed, bins should get deep cleaned at least once a month to eliminate any odours and visible dirt that can attract pests seeking food to enter your home. Especially when going abroad for more than just a couple of days, it's recommended to empty the bins and wipe them.
Daily Mirror
17-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Two common weight loss jabs could invalidate travel insurance for 500,000 people
The NHS has approved medications such as Mounjaro and Wegovy to tackle obesity and diabetes, with private prescriptions also on the rise Experts have issued a warning that approximately half a million individuals using weight loss injections could potentially jeopardise their travel insurance this summer. Medications such as Mounjaro and Wegovy, utilised to combat diabetes and obesity, have experienced a surge in demand following their NHS approval. Private prescriptions for these drugs are also on the rise, with an estimated 3.4 million people predicted to be eligible for treatment on the NHS alone over the next 12 years. However, those using these weight-loss injections are now being cautioned that they could risk their crucial travel cover if they plan to holiday this summer. According to the Daily Mail, it's mandatory for travellers to disclose any pre-existing conditions and medication when obtaining insurance. Yet, many people using weight-loss injections might not view it as medication or may neglect to declare it when purchasing cover. Experts have clarified that these drugs are categorised as treatment, even if procured online without a GP's prescription. They warn that failure to disclose usage of weight-loss injections and any associated health conditions could result in insurers refusing to pay out in the event of a claim, reports Bristol Live. Kara Gammell, from comparison website Money Supermarket, has advised: "If you're prescribed these drugs for obesity, diabetes or any other condition, it's essential to declare both the medication and the underlying health issue when buying your policy. "Failing to do so could invalidate your cover - even if your claim has nothing to do with the treatment. Ms Gammell also warned that those receiving private prescriptions must still disclose their medication, stating: "Insurers don't distinguish between NHS and private prescriptions - if you're taking it, they need to know. The fact that it wasn't prescribed through your GP doesn't exempt you from disclosure." She emphasised the necessity of transparency, particularly for those who have procured medication privately. Even individuals consuming these drugs without a prescription are not excused. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) warns: "If any prescription medicine is taken without approval from a doctor, especially if it may have side effects that could lead to complications, this could void your cover and cause issues should you need to make a claim." The Association of British Travel Agents has also advised ITV News that it is always wise to check with the FCDO travel advice to see if there are any restrictions in place when taking medications into the country you are visiting. Not all countries have given the green light to the same weight-loss medications as the UK, and airport authorities might raise questions about any drugs they discover, particularly if they're not sanctioned in their nation. The ABI found that the average insurance claim for individuals aged between 36 and 40 is £518, which jumps to £1,830 for those aged 71 to 75. In more extreme scenarios, insurance claims can soar into the tens of thousands. Yet, securing single-trip coverage for Europe can be quite economical, starting at just £16, according to Go Compare. ITV's experts advised: "First of all, you need to declare a pre-existing condition to your travel insurance provider anyway. This will likely result in a higher premium, but if you do not and the provider finds out, they may cancel your cover." They further caution: "They will also likely refuse to pay out if you fall ill due to the condition while on holiday. If one of the jabs has been prescribed for the preexisting condition they it is unlikely you will need to also reveal the medication you are taking for it." Insurance companies, including industry leader Aviva, have varied stances on this matter. Aviva insists that customers must disclose any diagnosed illnesses, diseases, or injuries for which they've been prescribed medication, clarifying: "This includes anyone who has been prescribed weight loss medication for obesity. "If a customer fails to disclose a medical condition for which they've been prescribed medication, we will not cover any claims relating to this under the terms of the policy." Staysure also recommends that customers disclose their use of weight loss injections, treating them like any other prescribed medication. Not doing so could void your insurance for any medical claims 'directly or indirectly linked to the medication'. The insurer added: "We can provide cover if the jab is prescribed by your GP or through a registered pharmacy, it's part of a proper weight-loss plan, is on your medical records and your doctor confirms you are fit to fly. "You'll also need to make sure the jab doesn't clash with any other medicines you're taking, which will be assessed by the medical professional." Admiral Group requires customers to reveal medical conditions like obesity and diabetes, though not necessarily the medication itself. A spokesperson clarifies: "Failing to disclose the underlying condition it's prescribed for - typically obesity or diabetes - could invalidate the policy." Co-op notes that failing to declare medication wouldn't 'automatically' void coverage, though if the injections are connected to a medical condition, this should be mentioned during medical screening. The Post Office consistently advises customers to declare any medical condition requiring prescription medication. It's advisable to discuss this with your insurer. It's wise to secure written confirmation that your policy covers the treatment. Ms Gammell recommends travellers to carry a copy of their prescription or a doctor's letter and keep their medication in its original packaging: "This helps avoid issues at customs and makes it easier to replace lost or stolen medication abroad."
Daily Record
08-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Travel insurance warning to millions of women who take one common medication
Travel insurance experts have sounded an alert over cover this summer. Travel insurance is as essential as suncream and your passport when heading off on holiday but millions of women have been warned they are taking a risk by not doing one thing when taking out a policy. Failure to declare medications can lead to issues and that includes one that millions of women take. It is estimated that nearly 13 million women in the UK are experiencing perimenopause or menopause - that's a third of the entire UK female population. And those who are taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are being warned they must declare it when buying travel cover. Kara Gammell, Insurance Expert at MoneySuperMarket, explained this means millions are unknowingly putting themselves at risk when heading overseas. She said that, despite the prevalence of HRT, many remain unaware that failing to declare related medications - such as HRT - when purchasing travel insurance could leave them unprotected abroad. She said: 'You've booked the flights, packed the SPF, and even remembered to renew your GHIC card. But if you're one of the millions of women in the UK taking Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), there's one more thing you might need to declare before jetting off: your menopause medication. "It might sound absurd - after all, HRT is a routine treatment for a natural life stage - but failing to disclose it to your travel insurer could leave you footing a hefty medical bill abroad." Kara also said those taking weight loss medication also need to declare this to insurers. With a 97% increase in Google searches for 'weight loss jabs' in the past quarter alone, the growing demand for these medications is evident. Kara said: "Many travellers don't realise that taking these medications can complicate their travel insurance. 'If you're prescribed these drugs for obesity, diabetes, or any other condition, it's essential to declare both the medication and the underlying health issue when buying your policy. Failing to do so could invalidate your cover - even if your claim has nothing to do with the treatment." 'It's especially important if you've bought the medication privately, which many people do. "Insurers don't distinguish between NHS and private prescriptions - if you're taking it, they need to know. The fact that it wasn't prescribed through your GP doesn't exempt you from disclosure." Kara said that a rule of thumb is to disclose all medications - including HRT and weight loss jags as "Insurers treat these as part of your medical history, and non-disclosure can void your policy." She added: "Some insurers do not require you to declare HRT if it's prescribed solely for menopause, as they consider menopause a natural part of ageing. "However, this varies by provider. If HRT is for another condition (early menopause due to surgery for instance), it likely must be declared. 'It's not enough to just list the medication - you also need to declare the condition it's prescribed for, such as menopause, obesity, diabetes, or PCOS. This helps insurers assess your risk accurately and ensures your cover is valid." She also said to speak to your insurer directly as online forms may not as about specific medications like HRT. And she added: "If you start a new medication or your health changes after buying your policy - but before you travel - you must inform your insurer. This is especially important for annual multi-trip policies. 'Bring a copy of your prescription or a doctor's letter when travelling and keep medications in original packaging. This helps avoid issues at customs and makes it easier to replace lost or stolen medication abroad. 'Download the NHS app. Having access to your medical records or a printed summary can help in emergencies or when speaking to foreign healthcare providers. Some countries restrict or ban certain medications, so check the embassy or government travel advice before you go."
North Wales Live
07-07-2025
- Business
- North Wales Live
People spending more on DIY and less on going out
People are spending more on DIY upgrades to their homes and less on going out, according to new research from price comparison service MoneySuperMarket. As the cost of going out continues to rise, 75% of UK adults say they're now entertaining at home More than half (56%) have made home improvements. The findings coincide with a milestone for MoneySuperMarket's SuperSaveClub, with up to 10% cashback at retailers such as B&Q, Argos and Etsy. The data showed that as the weather warms up, outside spaces are the most likely to be targeted for a makeover,with 58% upgrading their garden with new furniture, lighting, or entertaining features like firepits and pergolas. One in four adults have created an outdoor barbecue space complete with furniture and lighting - making it the most popular home improvement. 14% have built their own bar at home. Kara Gammell, personal finance expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: 'With hosting at home a popular trend, making savings on your household bills makes even more sense." Kara said 'If you're tackling any DIY to prepare for hosting at home, it's important to understand which tasks could affect your home insurance. Certain jobs, such as electrical work, should be performed by qualified professionals, as attempting them yourself could void your home insurance if any issues arise.' Kara said: 'Our survey found half of people have had a party mishap, so it's worth spending a few minutes checking your home insurance cover. We found the most common mishap is spilled food and drinks on furniture, which you'd need accidental damage cover on your policy to claim for. It's also worth checking that you've listed any items that could exceed the single item limit – that's typically anything that cost more than £1,000, for instance, sofas and carpets. 'Hosting at home should be fun and relaxed, but in our survey half of people said they've had a party mishap. So you can host worry free, it's worth spending a few minutes checking your home insurance cover. Spilled food and drinks on furniture and carpets are the most common types of damage people told us they've experienced when hosting. To make a claim, you'd need accidental damage as part of your policy, which isn't always standard. It's also worth checking that you've listed any items that could exceed the single item limit – that's typically anything that cost more than £1,000, for instance, sofas and carpets.' Kara continues: 'Most home insurance policies with contents cover offer some level of protection for outdoor items, such as BBQs, furniture and plants. "However, the level of cover varies, and with over half of people sprucing up their garden for hosting, you may want to opt for additional cover to make sure you're adequately covered for expensive items such as outdoor kitchens, garden furniture and even plants.'
